Get ready, because school's out...permanently! The trailer for "This Is Not a Test," a new zombie thriller from writer/director Adam MacDonald, promises a thrilling ride for Shudder and Independent Film Company. This film, which premiered at the Brooklyn Horror Film Festival last October to positive reviews, is set to hit theaters exclusively on Friday, February 20th.
2026 is shaping up to be a big year for horror, with the undead taking center stage. "This Is Not a Test" adapts the popular YA novel by Courtney Summers, starting with a classic "Breakfast Club" scenario before plunging into a "Shaun of the Dead"-style escape thriller. But here's where it gets interesting...
The trailer immediately sets the scene: five teenagers barricaded inside their high school as their town descends into chaos. One student's chilling line, "We have to do things we don’t want to do if we’re going to make it," sets the tone for a survival story that blends the grit of "The Faculty" with the bleakness of "The Mist."
Leading the charge is Olivia Holt, who, after her impressive performance in last year's slasher "Heart Eyes," feels like a perfect fit for the lead role. She's joined by a talented ensemble cast including Froy Gutierrez, Luke MacFarlane, Corteon Moore, Chloe Avakian, and Carson MacCormac. The cast feels authentically adolescent yet capable of handling the action-horror elements.
MacDonald, known for his 2014 Canadian wilderness thriller "Backcountry" and the Shudder series "Hell Motel," is no stranger to creating suspense. He's now delving into creature frights and the dark side of human psychology with a premise that asks: How far will you go to survive?
Watch the trailer for "This Is Not a Test," in theaters from the Independent Film Company and Shudder on Friday, February 20th.
What are your thoughts on another zombie film? Do you think the high school setting adds a fresh perspective to the genre? Share your opinions in the comments!
